CLICK HERE to access and download the Austin High School Orchestra Handbook, which includes the Orchestra membership form, contact information form, and parent volunteer form.
Philharmonic Ensemble is a group comprised of orchestra students of various grade levels. Students who are interested in learning other musical styles other than classical music are members of the Philharmonic Ensemble. Emphasis will be on the development of left hand dexterity, major and minor two octave scales and arpeggios, advanced bowing techniques, upper positions, vibrato control, tone development, music reading skills, and memorizations skills. The course will include Mariachi, Fiddle, Jazz, Rock Pop, and Classical music Styles. The Philharmonic Ensemble rehearses every other day during regular school hours and additional rehearsals are called on an as needed basis. The Philharmonic Ensemble participates in the Austin ISD All-City Mariachi Festival and in the Ballet Folklorico Spring Show in addition to all of the orchestra performances.
The main goal of this class is to develop advanced skills needed to perform on a stringed instrument. The focus will be advanced technical growth on a specific stringed instrument through listening, observation, and hands-on experience. Students will be involved in a variety of activities that will extend their skills. Public performances of repertoire will be held a minimum of three times during the semester. Additional opportunities for solo and ensemble participation will be given.
Students will:
In order to receive honors credit, juniors and seniors must complete the following:
Music as assigned by instructor.
Instrument, three-ring black binder, shoulder rest or rock stop, extra strings, rosin, lock for violin and viola players, pencil, and Smart Music membership.
Students will be expected to be on time and prepared for class with all necessary materials. Attendance is of vital importance as much of the work is done in class. Students will be allowed to make up work for excuse absences by recording assignments using Smartmusic.com. Contact the teacher upon return to school for information on assignments. If a student engages in academic dishonesty as outlined in the SFA student handbook, a zero will be issued for that assignment. Due to the nature of the course, performances may not be made up. However, absences may be excused if the instructor is informed in writing prior to the performance. If illness is the reason for the absence, a note from the parent/guardian must be given upon return to school.
Practicing is necessary in learning and maintaining skills on the instrument. Therefore, conscientious practice is required of all students. The instructor will be able to monitor practice at home using Smart Music.
From the moment a student becomes a member of the Austin High Orchestra Program, he/she must meet the following obligations:
Information about orchestra socials, fundraisers, grading system, sectionals, combined rehearsals, class rules, expenditures, instrument care, uniform, lockers, private lessons, other performance opportunities, student accounts. and parental support is in the handbook, which is posted in this section of the AHSO website. If you need a hardcopy of the handbook, please contact the instructor.